Chemistry at Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Ponce

The most striking feature of this program isn't what graduates earn—it's the unusual earnings trajectory. While similar chemistry programs nationwide suggest first-year earnings around $42,600, four years later these graduates are earning just $34,200. That's a 20% decline when most professionals see steady salary growth, raising questions about whether graduates are finding chemistry-related work or facing limited opportunities in Puerto Rico's job market.

The debt picture looks manageable at $16,250—well below the national chemistry median of $24,000 and typical for PR programs. Based on comparable programs, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.38 would normally signal reasonable leverage. However, that ratio assumes the estimated first-year figure holds true; the actual fourth-year earnings paint a different reality. At $34,200, graduates face roughly half their annual salary in debt, which is workable but less comfortable than the initial numbers suggest.

For families considering this program, the core question is geographic: chemistry graduates who stay in Puerto Rico appear to earn significantly less than mainland counterparts, with even top PR programs like UPR-Humacao reporting earnings around $22,700. The debt is low enough that it won't become crushing, but parents should discuss whether their student plans to pursue opportunities on the mainland after graduation, where chemistry degrees typically command higher salaries and more stable career trajectories.